When to See an Occupational Therapist vs. a Physiotherapist

When it comes to healthcare and rehabilitation, understanding the roles of different professionals can make all the difference in your recovery journey. Two of the most commonly consulted experts are occupational therapists (OTs) and physiotherapists (PTs). While their services often overlap, they focus on distinct aspects of improving your health and quality of life. Here's a breakdown to help you decide when to see each.

What Does an Occupational Therapist Do?

Occupational therapists help you improve your ability to perform daily tasks and participate in meaningful activities. Their focus is on enabling independence, whether at home, work, or in social settings.

When to See an Occupational Therapist

You might need an OT if:

• Daily tasks are becoming difficult: Struggling with activities like dressing, cooking, or bathing due to physical, sensory, or cognitive challenges.
• You’re adapting to a new diagnosis or injury: OTs specialize in strategies to cope with chronic conditions (e.g., arthritis, MS) or after an event like a stroke.
• Your environment needs modifications: If your living or working space isn’t accessible, an OT can suggest modifications or assistive devices.
• Fine motor skills are affected: Issues with handwriting, gripping objects, or other precision tasks are areas where OTs can help.
• You need workplace support: OTs often assist with ergonomic assessments or advice to make workplaces safer and more productive.

What Does a Physiotherapist Do?

Physiotherapists focus on the body’s physical function and movement, aiming to reduce pain, improve mobility, and restore strength.

When to See a Physiotherapist

Consider seeing a PT if:

• You have pain or mobility issues: Whether due to injury, surgery, or chronic conditions like back pain or arthritis, physiotherapy can help.
• Rehabilitation is needed after surgery: For example, joint replacements or ACL repairs require targeted exercises and care to regain strength and function.
• You’re recovering from an injury: Sprains, strains, or fractures often need physiotherapy for a full recovery.
• You’re managing a neurological condition: Conditions like Parkinson’s disease or stroke benefit from physiotherapy to maintain or regain mobility.
• You want to prevent injuries: PTs can provide guidance on exercise, posture, and movement to avoid future problems.
• Sports performance needs enhancing: Physiotherapy can help optimize movement patterns and address weaknesses to boost athletic performance.

When to See Both

In many cases, you may need the expertise of both an OT and a PT. Here are some scenarios where a collaborative approach works best:

• Post-stroke rehabilitation: A physiotherapist helps restore mobility and strength, while an occupational therapist focuses on relearning everyday activities.
• Chronic conditions: For conditions like multiple sclerosis or arthritis, a PT can assist with exercises to maintain mobility, while an OT helps adapt your environment and tasks.
• Injury recovery: If an injury affects both your ability to move and perform daily tasks, both professionals can play complementary roles.

How Health Next Door Can Help

At Health Next Door, we understand that your needs are unique, and finding the right support is essential.

Our team includes skilled occupational therapists and physiotherapists who work collaboratively to provide tailored care. Whether you need help regaining independence or improving mobility, we bring personalised services directly to your home.

Take the first step towards better health today. Contact us for a consultation to determine whether occupational therapy, physiotherapy, or both are right for you.